XFL returns: Football league plans a comeback with 8 new teams

Monday

After flopping fantastically nearly two decades ago, the XFL is making a comeback.

The league, which lasted for a single season in 2001, is expected to announce this week that it will return.

Initially, eight cities will have teams — Dallas; Houston; Los Angeles; New York; St. Louis; Seattle; Tampa, Fla.; and Washington, D.C. — according to published reports.

Two of those cities — Los Angeles and New York — had teams the first time around, when a failed TV deal led to the league's quick demise.

The XFL is owned by WWE chairman Vince McMahon, who will own all eight of its teams, as well.

This time, because of changes in the ownership structure and other league operations, McMahon said he believes the league will be a success.

"A chance to do it with no partners, strictly funded by me, which would allow me to look in the mirror and say, 'You were the one who screwed this up,' or 'You made this thing a success,' " McMahon told ESPN in a recent interview.

The league aims to be different from the NFL in several key ways, the Houston Chronicle reported. For instance, games will be shorter and protests during the national anthem aren't allowed.

Another difference: The pay. Forbes says XFL players, on average, are expected to make $75,000 — far less than their counterparts in the NFL.

The first season for the XFL will be in 2020. The league anticipates playing a 10-week schedule.